Top 15 Attractions in Letchworth, Hertfordshire

In 1898, the social reformer Ebenezer Howard published his book, To-morrow: A Peaceful Path to Reform, which introduced many principles of urban planning that have become commonplace today, such as the provision of parks, green belts, and zoning regulations to separate industrial areas from residential neighborhoods.

Although Howard’s concepts faced skepticism, they garnered support from members of the Arts and Crafts movement and the Quakers.

As the 20th century commenced, these concepts were implemented for the first time in the historic parish of Letchworth, which recorded a population of merely 96 in 1901. Today, Letchworth Garden City stands as one of the pioneering examples of planned communities, significantly influencing urban design worldwide.

For those studying architecture and urban design, the unique fabric of Letchworth, marked by its parks and Arts and Crafts style, serves as a compelling attraction.

1. International Garden Cities Exhibition

The elegant Arts and Crafts drawing offices, originally designed for Letchworth’s principal architects, now serve as a visitor center for the town and the Garden City movement.

Visitors have the opportunity to explore Letchworth’s global influence on urban planning, learn about Ebenezer Howard, and delve into the philosophical principles that shaped the town’s design.

Admission is free, and temporary exhibitions frequently complement those at Letchworth’s Broadway Studio & Gallery.

In spring 2019, an exceptional exhibition focused on Richard Barry Parker, an architect and urban planner at the forefront of the Arts and Crafts and Garden City movements.

2. Howard Park

Named in honor of Ebenezer Howard, Letchworth’s primary park reflects his foundational ideals.

This expansive green space, equipped with numerous facilities, remains a vital part of the community, featuring extensive lawns and quiet areas among mature trees for reading and relaxation.

Visitors can enjoy a refreshment kiosk, a modern playground, and a large paddling pool, as well as formal gardens including a bowling green and pavilion.

On the southern edge of Howard Park lies Letchworth’s inaugural public structure: the Mrs. Howard Memorial Hall, erected in memory of Howard’s first wife, Eliza Ann Bills, who passed away in 1904.

3. Broadway Cinema and Theatre

Situated in a striking Art Deco building, the Broadway Cinema opened its doors in 1936, beginning with a black-tie screening of the film Follow the Fleet starring Astaire and Rogers.

In the past two decades, the venue has adapted to the times by converting to a four-screen cinema, while its lavish Art Deco interiors have been carefully restored.

In addition to the latest cinematic releases, the Broadway screens live broadcasts and recordings from eminent cultural institutions such as the National Theatre and the Royal Opera House.

Following a multimillion-pound redevelopment in 2016, the venue was further adapted for theatrical performances, presenting plays, musicals, children’s shows, dance, touring music acts, and stand-up comedy.

4. Norton Common

Located centrally in Letchworth, Norton Common comprises over 60 acres of unspoiled woods and meadows adorned by the tranquil Pix Brook.

This area has earned the Green Flag award consistently for the last five years owing to its exceptional maintenance and facilities, which include an outdoor pool (further detailed below), tennis courts, bowling greens, a floodlit multi-use games area, a small skate park, a pavilion, and a picnic area.

During midsummer, the meadows are alive with wildflowers, and those hiking through the woods may spot a Muntjac deer.

5. Broadway Studio & Gallery

Located in the Arcade between Station Road and Leys Avenue, the Broadway Studio and Gallery serves as an exceptional art venue, showcasing local talent and hosting significant exhibitions befitting a town of Letchworth’s stature.

Recent exhibitions have featured renowned figures such as German artist/nature photographer Karl Blossfeldt (1865-1932), printmaker Richard Smith (1931-2016), and installation artist Kate Terry.

Additionally, the first floor of the arcade boasts a stylish café, while the gallery engages the community through activities like a monthly Family Arts Studio for hands-on crafts, regular critiques with local artists, and family-friendly exhibition tours.

6. Broadway Gardens

The center of Letchworth boasts a grand square/garden that was redesigned to commemorate the town’s centenary in 2003. Among the enhancements was the installation of an impressive fountain at the southern end, which looks magnificent against the backdrop of the Edwardian Baroque town hall to the north.

The gardens feature well-manicured hedges, vibrant herbaceous borders, and the stately Broadway Walk boulevard.

On a sunny day, visitors can purchase a meal from the town center and enjoy a picnic under the shade along the outer paths.

7. Standalone Farm

Families will appreciate this farm park located on the outskirts of Letchworth, open from February to November.

All beloved farm animals can be found at Standalone Farm, including goats, ponies, horses, pigs, chickens, cows, as well as llamas. Children have ample opportunities to engage, from feeding pigs and lambs to grooming ponies and observing cow-milking demonstrations. Weather permitting, tractor trailer rides are also available.

Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic, which can be enjoyed in a heated barn during inclement weather; there is also a café and a children’s play area on site.

8. Spirella Building

The Spirella Corset Company established this Arts and Crafts-style factory in Letchworth over three phases from 1912 to 1920. Reflecting the Utopian principles of the Garden City, Spirella provided a variety of amenities for its employees, including a library, ballroom, showers, baths, and a gymnasium, as well as free eye examinations and bicycle repairs.

The factory produced parachutes during World War II and ceased operations in 1989 after the business was sold a few years prior.

The derelict Spirella Building was acquired by the local council in 1995 and now houses offices and a fitness center, while the ballroom continues to host dance performances, weddings, and conferences.

9. Church of St Mary

The Church of St Mary, a testament to the former size of Old Letchworth, served as the parish church until 1903, spanning only 18 meters in length.

This historic structure is the oldest in the area, originating from the 1100s and built upon the remains of a Saxon church.

A charming feature of the church is the timber-framed bellcote over the western end, which shelters a bell dating back to the 1300s.

The chancel’s windows date to the 1200s, and within the church, visitors can find a recumbent effigy of a knight, Sir Richard de Montfichet.

10. Hitchin Lavender

The idyllic countryside adjacent to Letchworth transforms in July as 25 miles of lavender fields burst into bloom.

The nearby market town of Hitchin has a rich tradition of lavender cultivation dating back to the 16th century.

In the 19th century, this tradition supplied lavender oil to Ransoms, the oldest independent pharmaceutical company in the UK.

Queen Victoria’s train even made a special stop at Hitchin in 1851 specifically for a bottle of lavender oil.

At Hitchin Lavender, guests can admire the vibrant colors, pick their own lavender, and visit the shop offering lavender oils and lavender-infused toiletries.

11. Letchworth Outdoor Pool

The classic lido known as Letchworth’s heated open-air swimming pool was established in 1935, pleasantly nestled in the southeast corner of Norton Common.

Located just a five-minute walk from Letchworth Railway Station, the pool feels remarkably secluded, surrounded by the common’s woodland.

The swimming season opens in May, making the pool a popular destination for families during hot summer afternoons, providing inflatables and expansive grassy areas for sunbathing.

Measuring 50 meters in length and featuring nine lanes, the pool offers ample space for visitors seeking to engage in exercise.

Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays feature a dedicated adults-only session early in the morning from 07:00-08:00.

12. Letchworth Greenway

Encircled around the Garden City estate, the Letchworth Greenway comprises a 13.6-mile hard-surface pathway, offering a harmonious blend of rural landscapes without straying too far from Letchworth.

Created at a cost of £1 million in 2003 to celebrate Letchworth’s centenary, the Greenway features multiple locations that invite visitors to halt or take detours along the route.

Standalone Farm is one such stop, alongside Radwell Meadows, the Willian Arboretum, Norton Pond, and Wymondley Wood.

A complimentary app for the Greenway is available for download, providing real-time tracking of your journey while suggesting seven potential routes to follow.

13. Icknield Way Path

The Icknield Way has been traveled for millennia, predating the Roman occupation of England.

Often cited as the oldest road in Britain, this long-distance footpath spans 110 miles across southern England, stretching from Ivinghoe Beacon in Buckinghamshire to Knettishall Heath in Suffolk.

The path traverses through Letchworth, offering an opportunity for individuals to challenge their endurance while taking in the splendid chalkland scenery of the Barton Hills and the nearby Chilterns.

14. Teamworks Karting and Laser Tag

Located a mere ten-minute walk from the train station, Teamworks is an activity center focused on karting and laser tag.

The karting facility is highly regarded in the motorsport community, featuring cutting-edge indoor karts on a challenging track that rewards quick reflexes.

The track can be reserved in advance, or visitors can take advantage of the Karting 30 option for easy access to a kart in four segments of 7.5 minutes each.

Special promotions are available on Tuesday evenings, allowing participants to race for just £20. Additionally, kids will relish the laser tag experience, which is equally appealing to groups of adult friends seeking competition.

The laser tag arena combines atmospheric lighting and smoke machines with the latest infrared technology to deliver an exhilarating activity.

15. Golf

Letchworth quickly established its own golf course, founded in 1905 and designed by the renowned Jersey golfer and course architect Harry Vardon in 1911. Recently, Letchworth Golf Club has been redesigned to align with contemporary preferences, embodying a true parkland course with undulating fairways lined with willows, copper beeches, and sweet chestnut trees.

During the summer months, green fees are £47 from Monday to Thursday, £50 on Fridays, and £58 on weekends.

For families with children, the Letchworth Par 3 Family Golf Centre offers more accessible options suitable for both beginners and seasoned golfers looking to refine their short game.

This nine-hole course enveloped in tranquil, mature woodlands features a spacious clubhouse for post-round refreshments.